Hydrogel microparticles (HMPs) are an emerging bioink that can allow three-dimensional (3D) printing of most soft biomaterials by improving physical support and maintaining biological functions. However, the mechanisms of HMP jamming within printing nozzles and yielding to flow remain underexplored. Here, we present an in-depth investigation via both experimental and computational methods on the HMP dissipation process during printing as a result of (i) external resistance from the printing apparatus and (ii) internal physicochemical properties of HMPs. In general, a small syringe opening, large or polydisperse size of HMPs, and less deformable HMPs induce high resistance and closer HMP packing, which improves printing fidelity and stability due to increased interparticle adhesion. However, smooth extrusion and preserving viability of encapsulated cells require low resistance during printing, which is associated with less shear stress. These findings can be used to improve printability of HMPs and facilitate their broader use in 3D bioprinting.
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This content will become publicly available on May 29, 2025
Granular Biphasic Colloidal Hydrogels for 3D Bioprinting
Granular hydrogels composed of hydrogel microparticles are promising candidates for 3D bioprinting due to their ability to protect encapsulated cells. However, to achieve high print fidelity, hydrogel microparticles need to jam to exhibit shear‐thinning characteristics, which is crucial for 3D printing. Unfortunately, this overpacking can significantly impact cell viability, thereby negating the primary advantage of using hydrogel microparticles to shield cells from shear forces. To overcome this challenge, a novel solution: a biphasic, granular colloidal bioink designed to optimize cell viability and printing fidelity is introduced. The biphasic ink consists of cell‐laden polyethylene glycol (PEG) hydrogel microparticles embedded in a continuous gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA)‐nanosilicate colloidal network. Here, it is demonstrated that this biphasic bioink offers outstanding rheological properties, print fidelity, and structural stability. Furthermore, its utility for engineering complex tissues with multiple cell types and heterogeneous microenvironments is demonstrated, by incorporating β‐islet cells into the PEG microparticles and endothelial cells in the GelMA‐nanosilicate colloidal network. Using this approach, it is possible to induce cell patterning, enhance vascularization, and direct cellular function. The proposed biphasic bioink holds significant potential for numerous emerging biomedical applications, including tissue engineering and disease modeling.
more » « less- Award ID(s):
- 1944322
- NSF-PAR ID:
- 10536048
- Publisher / Repository:
- Advanced Healthcare Materials
- Date Published:
- Journal Name:
- Advanced Healthcare Materials
- ISSN:
- 2192-2640
- Format(s):
- Medium: X
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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